Rookie Kon Knueppel scored 24 points and LaMelo Ball added 20 as the Charlotte Hornets defeated the Houston Rockets 109-99 on Thursday night, extending their winning streak to eight games.
Hornets Extend Winning Streak
The Hornets’ current streak represents their longest since winning nine consecutive games during the 1998-99 season. Charlotte led by 16 points after three quarters, and Brandon Miller contributed the first five points of the fourth quarter to increase the lead to 96-75. A subsequent 5-0 run, including a 3-pointer by Sion James, extended the advantage to 103-81, prompting Houston coach Ime Udoka to substitute his starting lineup.
This marks the second consecutive lopsided defeat for the Rockets, who lost 114-93 to the Boston Celtics on Wednesday night, a game in which Boston played without Jaylen Brown.
Rockets Struggle
Kevin Durant led Houston with 31 points, while Jabari Smith Jr. Added 17. However, Alperen Sengun, who averages 21.2 points per game, was limited to just seven points on 3-of-11 shooting. Miles Bridges contributed 18 points for the Hornets, and Brandon Miller finished with 11 points despite sitting out the entire second quarter due to three first-quarter fouls.
Coby White joined the Hornets following a trade from the Chicago Bulls on Wednesday but did not play Thursday and is expected to remain sidelined until after the All-Star break due to a calf injury.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the final score of the game?
The Charlotte Hornets defeated the Houston Rockets 109-99.
How many points did Kon Knueppel score?
Kon Knueppel scored 24 points.
When will Coby White be available to play?
Coby White is expected to sit out until after the All-Star break due to a calf injury.
With both teams returning to action on Saturday – the Hornets visiting Atlanta and the Rockets traveling to Oklahoma City – what adjustments might we see from each team as they appear to build on this game’s outcome?
